Peatland Carbon Code

The Peatland Carbon Code is a voluntary certification standard for UK peatland restoration and management projects to validate their claimed greenhouse gas mitigation.

Peatlands are areas of high importance wetland, characterised by the accumulation of peat (partially decomposed organic material) which is vital because of its ability to store high quantities of peatland carbon. In the UK, peat bogs are most commonly found in upland areas and constitute 13% of the world’s priority peatland habitats.

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What is a peatland carbon assessment?

A Peatland Carbon Assessment (PCA) refers to investigation into the carbon dynamics and stocks within a peatland ecosystem and typically includes a number of key components. Firstly, Carbon Stock Estimation is created for the amount stored under-ground, quantified by the depth and density of peat deposits and concentration of carbon.

Alternatively, carbon flux can be measured which is the movement of carbon within the entire ecosystem in its various forms, including carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4). These measurements help understand the exchange of stored carbon in solid peat form and released carbon in gas form.

Assessments also look at the rate at which carbon is sequestered over time by looking at peat core samples to determine age, accumulation and deterioration of carbon.

There are many environmental variables which affect peatland and so factors influencing carbon dynamics should also be measured including temperature, water table levels, and vegetation type.

Peatland carbon mapping and data usage

GIS technology is used to map the distribution of peat within a landscape, and to monitor any changes to land use over time which may affect how peat is stored and its ability to sequester carbon, taking into account the overall health and condition of peatland ecosystems.

Carrying out peatland carbon assessments are useful for contributing to wider understanding of dynamics within these ecosystems; Informing climate change mitigation efforts; providing insights into the conservation of unique peatland biodiversity and the management of ecosystems; and supporting sustainable land use.

Real Wild Estates conduct these assessments as part of our financial modelling to assess the alternative natural capital income opportunities on a piece of land. Underpinned by these assessments, land can be entered into credit payment schemes.

Find out more about Peatland Carbon Code and speak to us today about identifying the most appropriate natural capital income opportunities on your land.

Balancing nature recovery with business viability ensures returns for nature and for you.

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